18ct Gold Opal, Sapphire, Ruby and Diamond Floral Basket Brooch, London 1991

A charming and intricately crafted 18ct yellow gold basket brooch, hallmarked for London, 1991, this piece is a delightful celebration of colour and form, designed in the shape of an overflowing floral basket.

The brooch is beautifully modelled as a woven basket, with a gracefully arched handle that curves upward in a twisted rope design, adding both texture and dimension.

The basket itself is finely detailed, with openwork elements and fluted shaping at the base, giving it a light, sculptural quality while maintaining a sense of depth and structure.

Emerging from the basket is an abundant arrangement of stylised flowers and foliage, each element carefully formed and set with a vibrant mix of gemstones.

Luminous opals are prominently featured, their cabochon surfaces displaying a captivating play of colour, shifting with flashes of soft blues, greens, and hints of pink as they catch the light. These opals are interspersed among delicately shaped gold leaves and stems, creating a naturalistic yet decorative composition.

Adding richness and contrast, deep blue sapphires are clustered into small floral motifs, their faceted surfaces providing a striking intensity against the warm gold. Complementing these are vivid red rubies, arranged in a tight cluster that adds a bold accent of colour, enhancing the overall vibrancy of the piece. Small diamond accents are subtly set among the design, offering delicate points of sparkle that elevate the brooch without overpowering the coloured gemstones.

The combination of gemstones creates a harmonious palette, with the iridescence of the opals balanced by the depth of the sapphires and the warmth of the rubies. The gold settings are finely worked, with careful attention to prongs and placement, ensuring each stone is both secure and visually prominent.

Overall, this brooch is a lively and elegant piece, combining skilful craftsmanship with a joyful, decorative aesthetic.

Its sculptural basket form and rich gemstone arrangement make it a distinctive and eye-catching example of late 20th-century fine jewellery.

Approximate size: 3cm x 3cm

Product code: 224x0360